Be Still & Know

Have you ever been so encouraged by something and then convicted by it in the very next breath? Ay yai yai, what a one-two punch that is! Over the last few weeks, I’ve been completely overwhelmed by the number of times I’ve opened a text, a card, or a message on social media and felt as if that person was reading my mind, or somehow just knew I was having a tough day and decided to reach out.

I’m good. I really am. I’m at peace. But every now and then, out of nowhere, it’s like a wave comes. Whether it’s worry, fear, or uncertainty, I just have to sit in it for a moment. Thankfully, though, I’ve never had to sit in it for long because of those divine, God-ordained, reassuring moments when someone else’s obedience was exactly what I needed. They are always right on time and serve as a reminder that God sees me, He knows me and my every thought, and He cares. He cares enough to remind me through the intentional words and actions of others who also care for me.

So why in the world would I be convicted by something so beautiful and encouraging—the demonstration of the hands and feet of Jesus on my behalf? Being completely transparent, I’m convicted because every time I receive one of these “God winks,” as I call them, I’m also reminded of how many times I’ve potentially robbed someone of that blessing by not being obedient to the Holy Spirit’s nudge. Not intentionally, but good intentions are without action are nothing more than intentions, right? Meaningless.

There have been many times when God laid something or someone on my heart, and I was either too busy, procrastinated until it was too late, or made excuses like, “I’m praying for them; surely they know that,” or “They know they can call me if they need anything,” or “They don’t really even know me, so that might seem weird.” And while there have been plenty of times when I was obedient (and what a blessing that feeling is), how many times have I been given the opportunity to be that “God wink” for someone else, and my disobedience kept that moment from someone when they needed it most?

It’s definitely called me to repent and be more sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s prompting. I had forgotten what it feels like to be on the receiving end of one of those divine appointments, but oh, how precious and timely they have been through all of this.

Whether it was someone reaching out to tell me they woke up with me on their mind—not knowing I hadn’t slept well the night before, someone sending a seemingly random Bible verse—not knowing I was sitting in a waiting room anxiously awaiting another test, or someone randomly messaging me with advice from her own personal journey—not knowing she was affirming a decision I had been desperately praying for confirmation about.

I pray that God will continue to use me in this same way for others and that I never again lose sight of how even the smallest acts of obedience can have such a huge impact. What may seem insignificant to me could be the very thing that gives someone else exactly what he or she has been praying for. And what an honor and privilege it is that the God of the universe would choose me to be His messenger! Lord, may I never take that lightly again.

We have been so humbled by the outpouring of love and support we have received. To everyone who has reached out, sent cards, messages, or anything at all—thank you so much. Thank you for continually reminding me of the goodness of God.